The initiative, which features a Space-Tech Hackathon and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) training, will take place in Dutse, Jigawa, from April 7 to 11 and targets participants from Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Jigawa states.
Programme Goals and Registration
According to Aisha Bantam, Head of Corporate Affairs at NIGCOMSAT, the programme is designed to engage university students, start-ups, and local innovators in satellite technology.
"The initiative aims to engage and empower young Nigerians, particularly university students, innovators, and professionals from the North-West," Bantam stated.
Interested participants can register via this link.
Building on Past Success
This initiative follows a similar programme launched by NIGCOMSAT Ltd in February for the North-East region, where a Space-Tech Hackathon themed “Building Grassroots Innovation in Satellite Technology” was held in Yola, Adamawa State.
Co-hosted with the Adamawa State Government, the event focused on fostering innovation in satellite technology to drive economic and social development.
Programme Structure and Benefits
Providing further details, NIGCOMSAT Ltd Managing Director, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, explained that the five-day programme will offer:
- Mentorship and hands-on experience in satellite technologies
- A hackathon where participants develop solutions using satellite technology
- Training for 100 youths on VSAT installation to enhance broadband access
- Certification for participants, boosting their career and entrepreneurial prospects
Egerton-Idehen also revealed that the winning team from the hackathon will gain entry into the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme (Cohort 2025) for further development of their projects.
“This initiative is designed to inspire innovation, address community challenges, and tackle youth unemployment across Nigeria,” she added.
Strengthening Innovation in the North-West
The North-West Hackathon and VSAT Training will be jointly hosted by Jigawa State and NIGCOMSAT Ltd.
As Nigeria continues to expand its digital infrastructure, initiatives like this play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide, fostering local innovation, and creating employment opportunities for young Nigerians.
With registration now open, this programme presents a valuable opportunity for youth in the North-West to develop skills that will shape the future of technology in Nigeria.